Louise Fitzhugh

Louise Fitzhugh (October 5, 1928 – November 19, 1974) was an American author, born in Memphis, Tennessee. She wrote and illustrated children’s and young adult books, the best known and most beloved of which remains Harriet the Spy.

Fitzhugh’s first work was Suzuki Beane (1961) – a beatnik spoof of Eloise. Collaborating with Sandra Scoppattone on this book, she functioned as the illustrator. Though the book was lightly tossed off as a parody, it proved charming and well done. Today, this rare book is much sought after. In addition to her writing, Fitzhugh had a minor career as an artist, with her drawings shown in New York galleries.

The daughter of a well-to-do family, Fitzhugh attended Miss Hutchinson’s school and went on to attend several different colleges. It is believed that she never attained a degree. She was married briefly to a man, but after their divorce, she was mainly interested in women. She didn’t, however, form any lifelong attachments.